Peru was an experience of a lifetime, introducing everything from different food and music to ethics and perseverance. While in Peru I was given many historical tours of sites throughout Peru and something that was heavily talked about was agriculture and the foods that were cultivated throughout the land based on the temperatures and techniques used to grow different crops such as potatoes and corn.

Peruvians are very passionate about food and I was very lucky to be able to learn some of their traditional dishes as well as indulge in chocolate making from scratch! I loved seeing the sense of community and hard work that was shown in every aspect of Peru. Everyone helped one another and believed in a, “You help me today and I help you tomorrow,” way of thinking, encouraging a wide range of peace and respect over the land.

Lastly, I was so lucky to experience New Years in Peru and hear about some of their traditions that they like to bring with them. For example, you can wear certain colors to wish for what you want to bring into the new year such as: green for money, yellow for happiness or red for love. You can also eat twelve grapes and make wishes for each grape during the new year. We got to celebrate big in Peru with fireworks, friends and new traditions!

---

Learn more about this blogger’s study abroad program: Global Service and Health Science Internship in Peru